।। Ratha Yatra or Ghosha Yatra in Srimandir Part – 4 ।।

Jay Jagannath, Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.

Mahaprabhu’s world-famous Shri Gundicha Yatra is held every year from Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya (2nd day of the bright fortnight of Ashadha) until Ashadha Shukla Trayodashi (13th day of the bright fortnight of Ashadha) (Niladri Bije – the final return to the temple).

This Ratha Yatra is known by various names in different scriptures (shastras), Puranas, and folklore, such as: Patitapabana Yatra, Ghosha Yatra, Mahavedi Mahotsav, Uttarābhimukhi Yatra (Northward Journey), Navadinātmikā Yatra (Nine-Day Journey), Dashāvatāra Yatra (Journey of the Ten Incarnations), Gundicha Mahotsav Yatra, and Āḍapa Yatra.

(1) Patitapabana Yatra :- Shri Jagannath is the Patitapabana Thakura (Lord who uplifts the fallen/sinful). The flag (bana) flying atop His Nilachakra (Blue Wheel) is the Patitapabana Bana, signifying the upliftment of the fallen. Mahaprabhu’s world-famous Ratha Yatra is meant for the salvation (uddhar) of the fallen (patita jana). Therefore, Mahaprabhu’s Ratha Yatra is called Patitapabana Yatra.

Jay Jagannath, Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Namah.